PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — One of Rhode Island’s few Republican state senators announced Tuesday that he plans to step down.

Sen. Christopher Ottiano, R-District 11, said in a statement he’s accepted a position as Associate Medical Director of Neighborhood Health Plan. He said he wants to dedicate his time to the new job, and that it wouldn’t be fair to his constituents in Bristol, Portsmouth and Tiverton.

Ottiano is one of only five Republicans in the 38-member Senate.

“I’d like to thank Senate President Paiva Weed, Leader Ruggerio, Minority Leader Algiere, and Majority Whip Goodwin and all of my colleagues in the senate for their guidance and support during my time in office,” he went on to say. “And, most importantly, I’d like to thank my constituents for their trust. It has been an honor to serve as their representative in the state senate.”

The office of Sec. of State Nellie Gorbea said it’s currently working on setting a date to hold a special election to find Ottiano’s successor.

Senate President M. Teresa Paiva Weed released a statement in response.

Senator Ottiano has distinguished himself as a dedicated public servant able to work across the aisle for the greater good of the state. He brought a valuable perspective to the Senate and was instrumental in the passage of legislation to reduce overdose deaths, expand electronic prescriptions, and much more. The Senate is grateful for his service, and we wish him the best as he embarks on this exciting new chapter of his career.”